The level of professionalism on display here is a real pleasure to watch. Pay attention kids, serving the song and playing without ego. Note how many times, Paul uses the word “please”, manners make it a pleasure for everyone.
This is how it's done, folks. 90% of drum recording is just playing a steady, fatback groove to support the ensemble. I really like the part when Paul removes a fill he did earlier because it steps on the lead vocals. I've been playing professionally for almost 40 years - and no one ever paid me to play like Dave Weckl. This video is a great glimpse into the nuts and bolts of studio recording - and Paul Leim is one of the best!
I once got hired by a producer who told me "I don't want you tearing up the set and I'm not paying you by the beat" and I laughed and said i won't be tearing up the drum set because I can't! A few tunes into the project and he could see my ability to just lay down a beat and he told me I was just what he wanted!
Please understand. This session was about doing my lifelong friend a favor and he one for me by letting Vic Firth use bits of his session and song to simply show a short session. If we had played the entire song there would have been licensing issues. If we had put vocals on it, they could have been copied as song ideas and that would have been bad. The gloves are because of sever arthritis in my right hand from playing 50 years. I tried just using a right glove. Then some folks said I was trying to look like Michael Jackson. So I went to using both. I guess they are right when they say there are folks out there that just have to find something bad in everything. Thank you to 230,000 viewers and the 95% nice comments. Happy Holidays to all. Here's to another 50 years of music. CMA Country Christmas will re-air on ABC TV Christmas Eve. Lots of different styles on that and we all sight read it, mostly first takes on the pre-record. Just sayin. God Bless. P
Paul Leim you're brilliant sir. You've played on countless records and songs that millions have grown up on. Thank you for your brilliance and God bless you. Well done for all your years that you have dedicated to music. 😊👍🏻✝
Paul was the co-producer on this session. And the producer (Robin Hood) is the guy who got him started when he was 15... Robin produced all the great ZZ Top recordings (La Grange, etc). All great guys!
As a drummer for 40 years, 22 years with Big Bands,professionaly,etc... I can only say how impossible is to play like this on such level ! Most people don"t get it ! I"m learned a lot from people like Paul...You are Great,man...!!
There's one thing this guy does so incredibly well that I'm sick to my stomach even just thinking about it. His snare hits are SO EVEN across the board. It's like his hands are made of pure MIDI and can be programmed to hit at a specific level every single time. He is every engineer and producer's wettest dream. The only problem I can see recording him is that I wouldn't feel like I was actually doing any work behind that mixing desk :)
As a producer who's come up through the garage punk, indie rock, and now producing synth-pop for the majors, I'm absolutely blown away by the DISCIPLINE -- more than anything (I mean, killer playing ability is a given with Nashville vets...they're just untouchable!). Wonderful video. So glad I stumbled across it while doing late night trolling on RUclips;-) Inspires me to be better in every way.
Paul, you are a pro and a machine! You were kind enough to speak to me on the phone for advice about 20 years ago. I’ll never forget it. I wish you had more videos like this. Thank you for everything that you do!
I see a lot of comments on this video Vic Firth asked me to do for them. Most folks get it. We have a very limited budget for my dear friend Robin Hood. And we are trying to get 5 songs recorded in 3 hours. It is a pressure cooker. If we don't get them everyone is disappointed and he has wasted his money on my selection of musicians for his music and session. Thank you so much to those who understand what this session was for and about. And that was Not Me. Doing records it is never, ever about me. On Master sessions we have more time than that. Most of the Country hits of the 60's and 70's were recorded exactly this way. That is what I was trying to show. Basically Time is Money. For those geniuses (JB comment below) asking for a drum solo and putting down what I have made a living at for 50 years. I have this to say. If I had insisted on a drum solo (like you probably would have to assuage you overblown ego) I would have ruined this session and recording. Vinnie and Steve, Dave and Peter are all good friends and would tell you exactly the same thing. You stuff your ego in a bag when you walk into a session with a professional attitude. Play what the songs needs. Steve would take a bullet before playing a drum solo in the middle of Fire and Rain with JT. I have been on over 300 million records with all kinds of music, from Doc Severinsen, to Roy Rogers, and Tom Jones to Shania Twain, Whitney Houston, and Kenny Rogers, and Chesney. The London Symphony, and Star Wars soundtracks. Big Band and Live TV. So I have nothing to prove to JB here on anyone else. And yes, I became a financially successful record making expert in the process. Thank to everyone for listening all these years, and to my response now. Even those who find being successful repugnant or evoking jealousy. When I was doing 450 sessions a year in Dallas in the 70's guys, out of North Texas State University (one of the finest musical educations in the world) would as to come into the studio with me and see a session. Then they would say, "I just want to Move to NY and play Jazz and starve!" I would say, "Well then that is exactly what you should do". I wish everyone to have their dreams come true playing music of all kinds, like I have. Be blessed my friends. Life is Good. P
Man it really warms my heart that after all you are a human with feelings. I mean its the irony - you play great, but even an internet troll can hurt you. Yeah, because you are a living being, not an half digital internet spawn. Keep it up, those who understand admire your work.
So, wait JJ, how many Diamond selling albums have you played on? Okay, how about Platinum? Gold? Number 1 hits? The joke is, while you troll away, Paul is working as he has for 50 years and with the biggest artists in the world. So your comments have no weight or value other than giving those of us who get it a chance to reiterate how brilliant Paul is. Word of mouth is everything in this business and so far the word on you is dick! The internet remembers. Good luck!!
The producer is Robin Hood Brians. Robin engineered the first three ZZ Top albums at his studio in Tyler, Tx. as well as recording their live album. He's been a hit record engineer/producer since the 1960's. His first big hit at his studio was Judy In Disguise by John Fred and the Playboy band. Robin has been a good friend of mine for 50 years. Paul is from Troup, Tx. and started out playing on sessions at Robin Hood's studio in Tyler. Paul set in with my band one night. Great drummer. Solid as a rock.
That punch in was sooooo tight. People have no idea how long you must hang around in studios as a drummer to get it so tight the engineer can punch you in at exact moments, with the same tempo/expression/dynamic/etc. The reason he is Paul Leim.
Mr. Leim, I've followed you for many, many years and have admired your playing since I was around 14 years old. Being brought up in Texas, I was raised on country music so It seemed natural for me when I started playing drums to gravitate towards country studio players like yourself, Larry Londin, Eddie Bayers, Milton Sledge, and Rick Marotta. The comments from some below are ridiculous. Thanks for posting this video! It was cool to see the process and get a look into that world. Thanks for the inspiration over the past ____ years. You're a legend! Thank you! Oh and your kit is freakin' sweeeeet!!!!
I think I already commented on this video a few years ago-but Paul, this is awesome to see y’all doing your thing! Thank you for this! I met you in Toronto back in 2003, for a Yamaha Hang and you were so lovely to me! All the best! 🤜🏻🤛🏻
Paul Leim laying that solid foundation down. Everything Paul talked about and the way he led this band is how it goes down in a Nashville environment. I suggest watching this video to get an idea of what it's like to be in a Nashville session if you're thinking of making the move there. Truly a Nashville/Texas professional making it look easy! Thanks for the video Paul!
High school with money. Great line. Great insight on how talented Nashville musicians are. It's a business folks, and you gotta be damn good to be able to be part of it.
WOW! Thank you so much for making this video. My 15-year-old son, who is my drummer, and I just watched this video and loved, its been a while since I've been in the studio, but to let him watch you write number charts and redo them, and punch in, and create like a fine oiled machine, was poetry in motion. Such a blessing. Thanks again to both Vic Firth and Paul Leim for doing it. Oh and my boy loves playing his Vic Firth sticks. They're his favorites.
Paul is a legend. Right up there with Greg marrow , Lonnie Wilson , Dan needham, John Robinson, Shannon Forest, Redmond etc. One of the OGs. The definition of a pro session player. Awesome insight.
Paul, i played in bands for years that rehearsed and rehearsed and.......WENT NOWHERE. To see how rapidly you could put a track together left me speechless, WOW. IMPRESSED!
I was lucky to meet Paul on my wife's Birthday when we were visiting an attraction in Tennessee on a holiday from the UK. I couldn't believe my luck to be in the same tour group and he was nothing but a gent - incredibly insightful and only happy to talk drums and give advice on what (retrospectively) should have been his day off. To anybody who can't summon up the smallest bit of respect for somebody who CLEARLY knows his craft, I'd invite you to share your discography and success at making a living at something that's incredibly hard to do consistently at this level.
Except that they never play more than the most vanilla stuff possible to appease the sheep they are shilling this stuff to. What difference does it make how good they are when all we get is the same boring shit over and over again out of Nashville?
man, Paul is living the life. Banging out tunes in the studio and getting paid well for it. What a dream. Country wouldn't be my first choice but it's playing music for a living. I'll take it! :D
I really enjoyed watching your video. It was a wake-up call. We are in the process of purchasing the Rupert Neve Design 5080 48 input. However, only one session player is up to your level. I know you know how lucky you are. I can’t imagine having a group of friends with your talent in one room. I’m blown away. I am also jealous you have a team of people. You are one blessed group. Cheers to all of you.🎉
This is an outstanding video that should be required viewing for anyone interested in studio work(be it musicians, engineers, producers, etc) in Nashville, or any of the larger professional music scenes. Nicely done.
WOW!!! Thank you VicFirth for the great sticks and amazing culture you guys continue to make for our drumming community. Paul, it's an honor to get an inside glimpse of your process. You're the most rock solid and legit drummer we can think of and paved the way for us. I do understand how people will tear down an artist. It's a survival mechanism, a primal defense, that people use due to exposure to malignant people in their lives. For me, I need to learn how to remember that reacting to these people is a conscience choice and I don't need to go there. I digress, thanks again Paul. Be well.
I have nothing but respect for working musicians. And it’s a treat to see it done in this way. These guys are there for a song and not to change the face of country. I think anytime music sells a certain amount people like to capitalize on that and it works for all genres. Guys who are mad at the establishment really need to look inside themselves and decide what their life’s work will be. It’s nobody’s fault you are not where you want to be. People want to hear this stuff and people are ready to make it.
Just because these guys make it look so easy anyone could do it doesn't mean its easy. Wow Paul is an amazing musician as is this whole band! Its always amazing to me how musicians at this level can make it look so easy. Its also amazing just how tight and rock solid the rhytm is and how there is not one thing that is too much or too little. Loved it!!
they've recorded forever so its pretty easy for them but that's the only reason. They know every little nuance to throw in or remove, and when to do it. Is amazing.
3 Quick things to say here: 1) I LOVE Drummers who can THINK! 2) I can do without drum machines & samples...who simply CANNOT. ...and... 3) THANK YOU PAUL for being such an integral part of Brown Bannister's early & very essential sessions for Amy Grant's early season of albums. Your percussive backbone, made those recordings BEAUTIFUL! BCRadio
Brother I didn't understand a thing you were talking about. But man I loved listening to what you were talking about and doing. It is truly great listening to a real pro. I am a life long fan of yours.
This was awesome Paul! I had my first studio session 2 days ago, it was very difficult, but I survived haha. I got 4 takes for every song, I hope to reduce that to two one day. One takers like yours will probably only be a dream. Keep up the good work, you're the best!
I had a drum studio session last week like my 2nd profressional one and I feel you on being difficult. It's so crazy that you can practice with the band for years or mnths, but once you hit that studio, it's all out the door lol.
At 5:58 he sums up what it's all about, I've never played a session, but I did do voiceover work while I was in Nashville, and trust me, when studio time is booked and the meter's running, you'll feel the pressure..
I remember watching this a long time ago. I found it again, wanting to check the personnel of "(I've had) The Time of My Life", since it's grooving so hard. This guy shows up. What an amazing and groovy musician! Big respect, Mr Leim!
Paul thank you for sharing. You guys are all on point and ready to run out of the gate. I think folks misunderstand what they are seeing and how getting to the point quickly is as much a musical as a financial thing. I liken it to getting a steak right off the grill as opposed to sitting under a warming light for 10 minutes. As a weekend warrior there's a lot to learn from watching you all work it. Thanks so much!
Loved watching this process and a small insight on how leading and taking input to come to a finished product. And...I don't even do country music. Paul you are living the dream.
And this is how its done, amazing process. well done Paul, it is a stunning view on how extremely well versed everyone is with how a song is constructed.
I most certainly learned alot from being that I'm currently recording myself and well have less experience. I digged the double layers and the "punch in" i just love how he took control of the whole situation like a true profressional and that's something I'm still learning. OWN IT! Mistakes and all. Thanx for this PAUL!
Thank you Mr. Leim!!! Incredibly educational and you make the very very hard work seem effortless. Great tone and feel!. Fantastic time! Again, Thank You!!!
This is awesome! Im a DIY amature musician writer producer working on my 20th original cd. 'In the studio' videos like this get me inspired. Thank You & God Bless
Whoa!! Paul, just keep being you my man and putting out that groove you are known for. Obviously some folks haven't done their homework on your catalog of work. Nice job with the TRBB at the Inauguration and tell Jeff Cox I said hey.
Paul, I play in a band that plays entirely improvised sets of music, and in that context I aspire to do exactly what you're doing for these musicians; make the song sound beautiful and stick to simple embellishments that enhance the melodies. Your playing is so beautiful! Love this!!
After some wonderful personal comments through my website from longtime drummers and professionals at the highest levels of their professions, who are fans and always have loved drums and drumming as I have. And congratulating me on getting to do music in my life at the highest level of every genre for all my life. To those who called me a 'rock and roll wanna be' and 'turd in a bowl'.. I will quote an expert in his field that told me how to respond to these kind of asshole wanna be's.. And I quote his supporting comment. "Paul, One thing I've learned over the years is that everybody is an "expert" on things they don't know anything about." So you wanna bee's that have a negative comment on my 50 years of playing at the top level with the most famous artists on the planet, on millions of records..... I won't even give you the pleasure of my first response.... The second and appropriate one is 'Have a Nice Day' .. LMAO Paul
Paul Leim It's a nice surprise to see you responding as I rewatch this video for a little inspiration before a Christmas rehearsal tonight! Always been a fan of your career, from the radio jingles to the present, and I'm grateful for this insight of a session! Thanks for the music, and all the best from OKC!
jjB: I am not in a drum or popularity contest. And never intended to be. Dave, Steve, Kenny, Vinnie and many top pros are all my good friends as Jeff was. We all respect each other for what we do. We would never make comments about each other like this. We have all been at this for over 40 years and established ourselves, and are happy in our own skin. That being said, and being a feeling human being, I do read what people say and I get my feeling hurt when folks say nasty things like you do. So you accomplished what you wanted. This was a simple session of simple songs simply to show what a fast 'demo session' is like. It was not brain surgery or sight reading a Big Band chart with John Williams, (which I have also done). So..whatever your name is, I wish you the best in life and hope you can enjoy it. Paul
I normally dont get into spars like this--but this is ridiculous--your career speaks volumes in itself--u shouldnt have 2 explain yourself 2 ANYBODY--PERIOD!!--I dont know who this guy is but he apparently has issues--as an up and coming session player myself who wishes he had even 1% of your resume--I appreciate this video --it gives insight on what the industry entails and what 2 expect when getting 2 the big cities--Man,just keep your head up and keep doing what u do--u have nothing 2 prove 2 ANYBODY
Thanks for your insight, Paul. Great playing, and highly professional. “Time is money” is the studio mantra, to be sure. From an ex-Navy drummer and friend of Kenny Malone, I say, WELL DONE!
This video was so enjoyable to watch. I love how everyone here knows his place, how they all listen to each other with open mindedness and humility. It's so inspiring to see how professionalism leads to a calm and pleasant environment while still giving 100% of your capabilities. I can't wait to do some more recording and more session drumming. I'll keep that video in mind whenever I get the chance to record in the studio. Next session is next month and now I'm even more excited. Thanks for this fantastic video. Take care !
Paul, thanks for posting this awesome video. You've been an inspiration to me for most of them 40 years! Please keep posting more. I'm still a wanna be!
Love that part about walking on the vocal. I'm working with my very favorite vocalist, who used to sing with the guys in STP in the 90's. He's in SoCal, and I'm in Detroit, so I did a demo for him here, and one of the things I was very conscious of, was not to step on his vocals with a fill... Free education from Paul on so many points
The level of professionalism on display here is a real pleasure to watch. Pay attention kids, serving the song and playing without ego. Note how many times, Paul uses the word “please”, manners make it a pleasure for everyone.
This is how it's done, folks. 90% of drum recording is just playing a steady, fatback groove to support the ensemble. I really like the part when Paul removes a fill he did earlier because it steps on the lead vocals. I've been playing professionally for almost 40 years - and no one ever paid me to play like Dave Weckl. This video is a great glimpse into the nuts and bolts of studio recording - and Paul Leim is one of the best!
100% this.
Thats was very pro
yup, less is more!
I once got hired by a producer who told me "I don't want you tearing up the set and I'm not paying you by the beat" and I laughed and said i won't be tearing up the drum set because I can't! A few tunes into the project and he could see my ability to just lay down a beat and he told me I was just what he wanted!
I knew a drummer who hated certain songs because the drum tracks were boring to him. Drummers just want to solo all the way through the track.
Yeah! More of these behind the scenes drum sessions at the studio. I could watch these all day.
Please understand. This session was about doing my lifelong friend a favor and he one for me by letting Vic Firth use bits of his session and song to simply show a short session. If we had played the entire song there would have been licensing issues. If we had put vocals on it, they could have been copied as song ideas and that would have been bad. The gloves are because of sever arthritis in my right hand from playing 50 years. I tried just using a right glove. Then some folks said I was trying to look like Michael Jackson. So I went to using both. I guess they are right when they say there are folks out there that just have to find something bad in everything. Thank you to 230,000 viewers and the 95% nice comments. Happy Holidays to all. Here's to another 50 years of music. CMA Country Christmas will re-air on ABC TV Christmas Eve. Lots of different styles on that and we all sight read it, mostly first takes on the pre-record. Just sayin. God Bless. P
I did not meet you in Nville. I met Eddie Bayers just when he came to town. After reading this ,your a top shelf fella.
I am a session drummer and work with several different producers. I found you to be inspirational, and educational. Thank you Paul!
Paul can you tell me what the mutes are on the heads in this video?
Paul Leim you're brilliant sir. You've played on countless records and songs that millions have grown up on. Thank you for your brilliance and God bless you. Well done for all your years that you have dedicated to music. 😊👍🏻✝
What is the name of this band??
Paul was the co-producer on this session. And the producer (Robin Hood) is the guy who got him started when he was 15... Robin produced all the great ZZ Top recordings (La Grange, etc). All great guys!
What is a Co-pruducer?
As a drummer for 40 years, 22 years with Big Bands,professionaly,etc... I can only say how impossible is to play like this on such level ! Most people don"t get it ! I"m learned a lot from people like Paul...You are Great,man...!!
I swear I watch this every few days. I admire how professional these guys are. His pocket, groove, flow and style is admirable. I love it
Although it's been eight years since you posted this, thank you so much for giving us this insight. We enjoyed it. ❤
Ronald & Regine 🙏
There's one thing this guy does so incredibly well that I'm sick to my stomach even just thinking about it. His snare hits are SO EVEN across the board. It's like his hands are made of pure MIDI and can be programmed to hit at a specific level every single time. He is every engineer and producer's wettest dream. The only problem I can see recording him is that I wouldn't feel like I was actually doing any work behind that mixing desk :)
As a producer who's come up through the garage punk, indie rock, and now producing synth-pop for the majors, I'm absolutely blown away by the DISCIPLINE -- more than anything (I mean, killer playing ability is a given with Nashville vets...they're just untouchable!).
Wonderful video. So glad I stumbled across it while doing late night trolling on RUclips;-) Inspires me to be better in every way.
Paul Leim is a living LEGEND!! Thank you Sir for your great inspiration!!
Paul Leim's pocket is so beautiful. Thank you so much for this! Just wow
Paul, you are a pro and a machine! You were kind enough to speak to me on the phone for advice about 20 years ago. I’ll never forget it. I wish you had more videos like this. Thank you for everything that you do!
What an awesome glimpse into a pro session. Thanks Paul!
I see a lot of comments on this video Vic Firth asked me to do for them. Most folks get it. We have a very limited budget for my dear friend Robin Hood. And we are trying to get 5 songs recorded in 3 hours. It is a pressure cooker. If we don't get them everyone is disappointed and he has wasted his money on my selection of musicians for his music and session. Thank you so much to those who understand what this session was for and about. And that was Not Me. Doing records it is never, ever about me.
On Master sessions we have more time than that. Most of the Country hits of the 60's and 70's were recorded exactly this way. That is what I was trying to show. Basically Time is Money.
For those geniuses (JB comment below) asking for a drum solo and putting down what I have made a living at for 50 years. I have this to say. If I had insisted on a drum solo (like you probably would have to assuage you overblown ego) I would have ruined this session and recording. Vinnie and Steve, Dave and Peter are all good friends and would tell you exactly the same thing. You stuff your ego in a bag when you walk into a session with a professional attitude. Play what the songs needs. Steve would take a bullet before playing a drum solo in the middle of Fire and Rain with JT. I have been on over 300 million records with all kinds of music, from Doc Severinsen, to Roy Rogers, and Tom Jones to Shania Twain, Whitney Houston, and Kenny Rogers, and Chesney. The London Symphony, and Star Wars soundtracks. Big Band and Live TV. So I have nothing to prove to JB here on anyone else. And yes, I became a financially successful record making expert in the process. Thank to everyone for listening all these years, and to my response now. Even those who find being successful repugnant or evoking jealousy. When I was doing 450 sessions a year in Dallas in the 70's guys, out of North Texas State University (one of the finest musical educations in the world) would as to come into the studio with me and see a session. Then they would say, "I just want to Move to NY and play Jazz and starve!" I would say, "Well then that is exactly what you should do". I wish everyone to have their dreams come true playing music of all kinds, like I have. Be blessed my friends. Life is Good. P
Paul Leim You rock! Got the pleasure of seeing you live with Mike Nesmith couple years back!
Thanks Bud.. Had fun with Nez back in the 70's and in 12-13.. Thanks for coming. Happy New Year. Paul
Man it really warms my heart that after all you are a human with feelings. I mean its the irony - you play great, but even an internet troll can hurt you. Yeah, because you are a living being, not an half digital internet spawn. Keep it up, those who understand admire your work.
Are you still on here IDIOT, you are not for real, nobody is this stupid, but there is a first time for everything LOL!!
So, wait JJ, how many Diamond selling albums have you played on? Okay, how about Platinum? Gold? Number 1 hits? The joke is, while you troll away, Paul is working as he has for 50 years and with the biggest artists in the world. So your comments have no weight or value other than giving those of us who get it a chance to reiterate how brilliant Paul is. Word of mouth is everything in this business and so far the word on you is dick! The internet remembers. Good luck!!
"You guys ought to do this for a livin'. You're really good. You'll get paid for this." LOL, the producer is phenomenal. He cracked me up.
The producer is Robin Hood Brians. Robin engineered the first three ZZ Top albums at his studio in Tyler, Tx. as well as recording their live album. He's been a hit record engineer/producer since the 1960's. His first big hit at his studio was Judy In Disguise by John Fred and the Playboy band. Robin has been a good friend of mine for 50 years. Paul is from Troup, Tx. and started out playing on sessions at Robin Hood's studio in Tyler. Paul set in with my band one night. Great drummer. Solid as a rock.
That punch in was sooooo tight. People have no idea how long you must hang around in studios as a drummer to get it so tight the engineer can punch you in at exact moments, with the same tempo/expression/dynamic/etc.
The reason he is Paul Leim.
Incredible. They make it look so easy.
Few people will ever understand how good these musicians are.
Mr. Leim, I've followed you for many, many years and have admired your playing since I was around 14 years old. Being brought up in Texas, I was raised on country music so It seemed natural for me when I started playing drums to gravitate towards country studio players like yourself, Larry Londin, Eddie Bayers, Milton Sledge, and Rick Marotta. The comments from some below are ridiculous. Thanks for posting this video! It was cool to see the process and get a look into that world. Thanks for the inspiration over the past ____ years. You're a legend! Thank you! Oh and your kit is freakin' sweeeeet!!!!
I think I already commented on this video a few years ago-but Paul, this is awesome to see y’all doing your thing! Thank you for this! I met you in Toronto back in 2003, for a Yamaha Hang and you were so lovely to me! All the best! 🤜🏻🤛🏻
That was fun. Studio musicians, the unsung heroes.
Session players are the holy grail of musicians!!!!🙏🙏🙏
Paul Leim laying that solid foundation down. Everything Paul talked about and the way he led this band is how it goes down in a Nashville environment. I suggest watching this video to get an idea of what it's like to be in a Nashville session if you're thinking of making the move there. Truly a Nashville/Texas professional making it look easy! Thanks for the video Paul!
PAUL LEIM=LEGEND! Had a the pleasure to watch him in person a couple of days ago on a session. He was incredible!
Wow, these are real pro’s at work. Thanks so much for posting this!
Thanks Mr. Leim!! It's so great to get lessons from one of the Masters of country music!!!
High school with money. Great line. Great insight on how talented Nashville musicians are. It's a business folks, and you gotta be damn good to be able to be part of it.
WOW! Thank you so much for making this video. My 15-year-old son, who is my drummer, and I just watched this video and loved, its been a while since I've been in the studio, but to let him watch you write number charts and redo them, and punch in, and create like a fine oiled machine, was poetry in motion. Such a blessing. Thanks again to both Vic Firth and Paul Leim for doing it. Oh and my boy loves playing his Vic Firth sticks. They're his favorites.
Paul is a legend. Right up there with Greg marrow , Lonnie Wilson , Dan needham, John Robinson, Shannon Forest, Redmond etc. One of the OGs. The definition of a pro session player. Awesome insight.
If you left out several..
Paul, i played in bands for years that rehearsed and rehearsed and.......WENT NOWHERE. To see how rapidly you could put a track together left me speechless, WOW. IMPRESSED!
Perfection brought to you by Vic Firth and Mr. Leim.
I was lucky to meet Paul on my wife's Birthday when we were visiting an attraction in Tennessee on a holiday from the UK. I couldn't believe my luck to be in the same tour group and he was nothing but a gent - incredibly insightful and only happy to talk drums and give advice on what (retrospectively) should have been his day off. To anybody who can't summon up the smallest bit of respect for somebody who CLEARLY knows his craft, I'd invite you to share your discography and success at making a living at something that's incredibly hard to do consistently at this level.
I retired from playing bass 5 years ago after playing for over 40 years....there is nothing like playing with excellent tight pure musicians!!!
As an engineer nothing is better than musicians that can really PLAY!! love it
Except that they never play more than the most vanilla stuff possible to appease the sheep they are shilling this stuff to. What difference does it make how good they are when all we get is the same boring shit over and over again out of Nashville?
Paul is the best his drumming is on point his ideas are just perfect one of my favorite drummers of ALL time
love... love.... love this video. thanks Paul & Vic Firth. very insightful!
man, Paul is living the life. Banging out tunes in the studio and getting paid well for it. What a dream. Country wouldn't be my first choice but it's playing music for a living. I'll take it! :D
Every session there is so amazing , I surly miss that.
I really enjoyed watching your video. It was a wake-up call. We are in the process of purchasing the Rupert Neve Design 5080 48 input. However, only one session player is up to your level. I know you know how lucky you are. I can’t imagine having a group of friends with your talent in one room. I’m blown away. I am also jealous you have a team of people. You are one blessed group. Cheers to all of you.🎉
Much respect Paul from New Zealand. Your body of work has inspired me over the years x
Love the tempo and groove of this song. Really like his feel and approach to his drumming.
This is an outstanding video that should be required viewing for anyone interested in studio work(be it musicians, engineers, producers, etc) in Nashville, or any of the larger professional music scenes. Nicely done.
WOW!!! Thank you VicFirth for the great sticks and amazing culture you guys continue to make for our drumming community. Paul, it's an honor to get an inside glimpse of your process. You're the most rock solid and legit drummer we can think of and paved the way for us. I do understand how people will tear down an artist. It's a survival mechanism, a primal defense, that people use due to exposure to malignant people in their lives. For me, I need to learn how to remember that reacting to these people is a conscience choice and I don't need to go there. I digress, thanks again Paul. Be well.
I have nothing but respect for working musicians. And it’s a treat to see it done in this way. These guys are there for a song and not to change the face of country. I think anytime music sells a certain amount people like to capitalize on that and it works for all genres. Guys who are mad at the establishment really need to look inside themselves and decide what their life’s work will be. It’s nobody’s fault you are not where you want to be. People want to hear this stuff and people are ready to make it.
That sir, was a whole lot of fun. Thanks so much for sharing this look inside a session. Loved it!
I"m in pure heaven! Love seeing this process!!!!
Just because these guys make it look so easy anyone could do it doesn't mean its easy. Wow Paul is an amazing musician as is this whole band! Its always amazing to me how musicians at this level can make it look so easy. Its also amazing just how tight and rock solid the rhytm is and how there is not one thing that is too much or too little. Loved it!!
they've recorded forever so its pretty easy for them but that's the only reason. They know every little nuance to throw in or remove, and when to do it. Is amazing.
What a great video! It's really fascinating to see how things are developed in the studio. Paul Leim, you are a CLASS act, sir!
3 Quick things to say here:
1) I LOVE Drummers who can THINK!
2) I can do without drum machines & samples...who simply CANNOT.
...and...
3) THANK YOU PAUL for being such an integral part of Brown Bannister's early & very essential sessions for Amy Grant's early season of albums. Your percussive backbone, made those recordings BEAUTIFUL!
BCRadio
Much respect for your skills and for what you do. Thank you for sharing a session with us!
That level that these guys are showing in there needs just one word: GODMODE!
Brother I didn't understand a thing you were talking about. But man I loved listening to what you were talking about and doing. It is truly great listening to a real pro. I am a life long fan of yours.
This is awesome. Very creative, very fast and it sounds killer. Love to see how the pros make this song come alive. Well done!
This guy was a major influence on my studio drumming. Awesome player!
This was awesome Paul! I had my first studio session 2 days ago, it was very difficult, but I survived haha. I got 4 takes for every song, I hope to reduce that to two one day. One takers like yours will probably only be a dream. Keep up the good work, you're the best!
I had a drum studio session last week like my 2nd profressional one and I feel you on being difficult. It's so crazy that you can practice with the band for years or mnths, but once you hit that studio, it's all out the door lol.
At 5:58 he sums up what it's all about, I've never played a session, but I did do voiceover work while I was in Nashville, and trust me, when studio time is booked and the meter's running, you'll feel the pressure..
Very cool to see professionals in action. Thanks for sharing a glimpse!
I remember watching this a long time ago. I found it again, wanting to check the personnel of "(I've had) The Time of My Life", since it's grooving so hard. This guy shows up. What an amazing and groovy musician! Big respect, Mr Leim!
Love the behind the scenes on how music is produced and recorded!!
Paul thank you for sharing. You guys are all on point and ready to run out of the gate. I think folks misunderstand what they are seeing and how getting to the point quickly is as much a musical as a financial thing. I liken it to getting a steak right off the grill as opposed to sitting under a warming light for 10 minutes. As a weekend warrior there's a lot to learn from watching you all work it. Thanks so much!
Loved watching this process and a small insight on how leading and taking input to come to a finished product. And...I don't even do country music. Paul you are living the dream.
Wow what a treat! Running across Paul some 30 years ago and learned a tremendous amount. He was my Carter Beaufort before Carter Beauford.
Thanks for the look inside. You guys are fantastic!
Really cool to get a glimpse at these sessions. Thanks!
Thanks for giving us a peak behind the curtain Paul! Really great seeing some pros laying it down! Back to the woodshed I go.
And this is how its done, amazing process. well done Paul, it is a stunning view on how extremely well versed everyone is with how a song is constructed.
This was so fun to watch!
I most certainly learned alot from being that I'm currently recording myself and well have less experience. I digged the double layers and the "punch in" i just love how he took control of the whole situation like a true profressional and that's something I'm still learning. OWN IT! Mistakes and all. Thanx for this PAUL!
Thank you Mr. Leim!!! Incredibly educational and you make the very very hard work seem effortless. Great tone and feel!. Fantastic time! Again, Thank You!!!
Old school. Down and dirty. The way it should be done. No bs. Just pure talent and music.
This is awesome! Im a DIY amature musician writer producer working on my 20th original cd. 'In the studio' videos like this get me inspired. Thank You & God Bless
Wow Paul this was great!! Been a fan of your work for years! You are a beast Sir!!!
Paul you are a fantastic drum arranger and even a better player! Your creative energy really makes the song.
High level professionals.
Thanks for the clinic, Paul!
Thank you for this insight into the process. Amazing to see real pros at work.
Thank you for the video. Professional players who strive to work together and do their best gets my respect, nice to see how you accomplish this.
Crazy that this is only a demo. I can’t imagine the precision and discussions in the master recording
One of my all time favourite country drummers!!
Awesome! Thanks Paul!
Great work!! thanks for sharing this its really fun to watch. Cheers.
Whoa!!
Paul, just keep being you my man and putting out that groove you are known for. Obviously some folks haven't done their homework on your catalog of work. Nice job with the TRBB at the Inauguration and tell Jeff Cox I said hey.
Paul - thanks for sharing this. Very interesting collaboration, workflow, and personalities!
One of the best examples of a streamlined drum recording session I’ve ever seen. Holy shit.
Paul, I play in a band that plays entirely improvised sets of music, and in that context I aspire to do exactly what you're doing for these musicians; make the song sound beautiful and stick to simple embellishments that enhance the melodies. Your playing is so beautiful! Love this!!
I love learning about drums, music and the business. thank you for the time and insight.
Really informative. Amazing, the talent assembled in that room.
After some wonderful personal comments through my website from longtime drummers and professionals at the highest levels of their professions, who are fans and always have loved drums and drumming as I have. And congratulating me on getting to do music in my life at the highest level of every genre for all my life. To those who called me a 'rock and roll wanna be' and 'turd in a bowl'.. I will quote an expert in his field that told me how to respond to these kind of asshole wanna be's.. And I quote his supporting comment. "Paul, One thing I've learned over the years is that everybody is an "expert" on things they don't know anything about." So you wanna bee's that have a negative comment on my 50 years of playing at the top level with the most famous artists on the planet, on millions of records..... I won't even give you the pleasure of my first response.... The second and appropriate one is 'Have a Nice Day' .. LMAO Paul
The world is full of haters
Paul Leim It's a nice surprise to see you responding as I rewatch this video for a little inspiration before a Christmas rehearsal tonight! Always been a fan of your career, from the radio jingles to the present, and I'm grateful for this insight of a session! Thanks for the music, and all the best from OKC!
Joey Breezes you are welcome Joey. Have a great Holiday season. God Bless. P
jjB: I am not in a drum or popularity contest. And never intended to be. Dave, Steve, Kenny, Vinnie and many top pros are all my good friends as Jeff was. We all respect each other for what we do. We would never make comments about each other like this. We have all been at this for over 40 years and established ourselves, and are happy in our own skin. That being said, and being a feeling human being, I do read what people say and I get my feeling hurt when folks say nasty things like you do. So you accomplished what you wanted. This was a simple session of simple songs simply to show what a fast 'demo session' is like. It was not brain surgery or sight reading a Big Band chart with John Williams, (which I have also done). So..whatever your name is, I wish you the best in life and hope you can enjoy it. Paul
I normally dont get into spars like this--but this is ridiculous--your career speaks volumes in itself--u shouldnt have 2 explain yourself 2 ANYBODY--PERIOD!!--I dont know who this guy is but he apparently has issues--as an up and coming session player myself who wishes he had even 1% of your resume--I appreciate this video --it gives insight on what the industry entails and what 2 expect when getting 2 the big cities--Man,just keep your head up and keep doing what u do--u have nothing 2 prove 2 ANYBODY
i love this so much. please do a series of in studio videos!
Thanks for your insight, Paul. Great playing, and highly professional. “Time is money” is the studio mantra, to be sure. From an ex-Navy drummer and friend of Kenny Malone, I say, WELL DONE!
Great share, thanks. So cool to see this being done.
What a cool insight into how it is done!! Thanks so much for posting this!!
Great glimpse into the high pressured world of a session musician.
This video was so enjoyable to watch. I love how everyone here knows his place, how they all listen to each other with open mindedness and humility. It's so inspiring to see how professionalism leads to a calm and pleasant environment while still giving 100% of your capabilities. I can't wait to do some more recording and more session drumming. I'll keep that video in mind whenever I get the chance to record in the studio. Next session is next month and now I'm even more excited. Thanks for this fantastic video. Take care !
Groove, consistency and efficiency....love it!
The knowledge provided here is INCREDIBLE!
Paul, thanks for posting this awesome video. You've been an inspiration to me for most of them 40 years! Please keep posting more. I'm still a wanna be!
Love that part about walking on the vocal.
I'm working with my very favorite vocalist, who used to sing with the guys in STP in the 90's. He's in SoCal, and I'm in Detroit, so I did a demo for him here, and one of the things I was very conscious of, was not to step on his vocals with a fill...
Free education from Paul on so many points
How fun is that!?? ❤️❤️❤️. I love it. Thanks for makin this.
WOW,what a bunch of great guys!
Damn that was awesome! Love the duct tape muffling device, learned something new there.